Exploring the heart of Community-based Tourism in Haa

The seven-day ‘Peer Learning Trip to Haa’ to explore Community-based tourism initiatives was held from  25th April to 1st May, 2024. This immersive experience aimed to understand the dynamics of sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and community engagement.

The trip encompassed various activities ranging from experiencing the village homestay, experiences to Haa Panorama hike guided by local guide, visits to religious sites guided by Homestay Chairman (Homestay Association of Haa), interaction with Karsho eco-campsites members and property visit, and also visit to various heritage lodges and their hot stone bath facilities. In addition, the team visited to National Research Centre For Riverine and Lake Fisheries (NRCRLF), Haa Visitor Information Center, and Jigme Kesar Strict Nature Reserve (JKSNR).

This learning trip brought together newly certified homestay owner from the project landscape to experience Community-based Toursim in Haa which was initiated by RSPN (Year 2016-2018). The participants observed how local communities are empowered to manage and benefit from tourism activities. In addition, the participants gained a valuable insight into the principles of responsible tourism, the preservation of cultural heritage, the promotion of environmental conservation, and collaboration with relevant agencies within their landscape. This immersive peer learning journey not only fostered the collaboration and knowledge exchange among them but also inspired a deeper understanding and appreciation for the transformative potential of community-based tourism initiatives and also to setup a local institution at their place. 

RSPN Bhutan with co-financial support from the Department of Tourism, Bhutan through #GEF Ecotourism Project successfully coordinated the trip.